Chelsea will look to regain some much-needed confidence when they face Manchester United in the 5th round of the FA Cup in a few hours time. The Blues have had a topsy turvy campaign till now with huge losses against Bournemouth and Manchester City especially attracting disbelief and criticism in equal measure.
They will bank on home comfort and their recent record against Manchester United (2 losses in 6 matches) as they aim to continue their dominance over the red half of Manchester, especially at the Bridge.
Maurizio Sarri’s refusal to tweak his tactics in times of adversity has been questioned but having stuck to his beliefs steadfastly till this point, he is unlikely to change anything drastically now.
Ole’s fantastic start to the season was also brought to halt when PSG eased to a 2-0 win at Old Trafford and the Norwegian will also be under pressure to avoid a second consecutive big game defeat.
CHELSEA TEAM NEWS
Not much was revealed on this front in the pre-match presser. There will be late fitness tests on a couple of players. Marcos Alonso was rested against Malmo while Ruben Loftus-Cheek missed out due to a back problem. Both are in contention to return as far as fitness is concerned.
DEFENCE
Though there will be the temptation to play Kepa which Sarri might well choose to do, Willy Caballero is the cup keeper and is good enough to do the job.
Cesar Azpilicueta should continue at right-back while we think Marcos Alonso’s ”rest” might be prolonged which should see Emerson continue at left-back.
Antonio Rudiger and David Luiz are the senior centre-backs and are likely to feature which will see Christensen drop out.
MIDFIELD
With a win required to boost the morale and shift the piercing graze of the detractors, we might see a strong midfield three selected by Sarri.
Jorginho is set to reprise his role in deep midfield. He is likely to be flanked by the duo of N’Golo Kante and Mateo Kovacic in slightly advanced positions.
ATTACK
Eden Hazard should start on the left. His creative inputs will be crucial and we expect Willian to get a start on the opposite flank.
The Brazilian has been in and out of the team but Sarri will demand a big performance from him against United.
Gonzalo Higuain should lead the line with Giroud likely to be selected for the Europa League second leg.
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